Lemony Kale Lentil Quinoa Salad

This is a perfect dish for a vegetarian or anyone who wants to start eating less meat.  It is LOADED with protein from both the quinoa and the lentils.   I think the sour lemon flavor is a great combination with the pungent kale taste.  I added the shaved asiago cheese because I was in the mood for cheese but I bet it would be great without it.   Also, the beauty of this salad is that it tastes just as amazing cold as it does hot.  Remember, you don't have  to only eat meat to get your protein.

Lemony Garlic Kale Lentil Quinoa Salad

makes 6 servings

Ingredients

1 cup cooked quinoa (cook according to instructions on the box)

8 oz lentils, soaked and cooked

2 cups of kale, stems removed

½ cup sliced tomatoes

2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 garlic cloves, chopped

¼ cup chopped onion

1 Tablespoon olive oil

kosher salt

fresh basil

2 Tablespoons shaved asiago cheese, or any other hard cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Cook lentils and quinoa according to instructions on packages.
2. Place oil, garlic and onion in pan and saute for 2 minutes.  Add kale and tomatoes add saute for a few minutes until soft but still crisp.  Add basil and salt and stir until blended.  Add cooked lentils and make sure it is well combined.
3. Mix the lentil/kale mixture with cooked quinoa.  Add lemon juice, stir well.  Add cheese if desired.   Serve hot or cold. ENJOY 🙂

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